Police appeal after South Bank homophobic attacks

Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a number of recent attacks on gay men in the South Bank area.

A number of incidents have been reported to Police where gay men have been subjected to a barrage of verbal homophobic abuse before having bottles, stones and cans thrown at them. All the reported incidents occurred during weekend daylight hours, mainly during the afternoon.

The most recent incident occurred on Sunday 16 November at approximately 2pm in the vicinity of the National Film Theatre. Two men were attacked as they were filming material for next year's Lesbian & Gay Film Festival by two youths who perceived that the victims were gay.

The youths were caught on film by the victims but pulled their hoods up in response and continued to verbally abuse and throw bottles at them.

The first youth is described as a white male, approximately 15 years old with an average build, 5'10" wearing a grey or blue hooded sweat top.

The second youth is described as a white male, approximately 15 years old with a slim build, 5'10" wearing a grey or blue hooded sweat top.

"This area is one of the most cosmopolitan areas of Lambeth, with many tourist and visitors," PC Andy Hewlett, Lambeth Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Liaison Officer (LGBT LO) told Gay.com UK.

"Youths who skate board also use this area due to the extensive paved environment and street furniture, although it is not thought that these youths were involved".

"It would appear that the reason for the attacks was homophobia. It is very possible that there have been other incidents, which haven't been reported to police. We would encourage anyone who has either witnessed or been targeted in these attacks to contact the Lambeth LGBT".

Anyone with information should contact the help line on 020 8649 2811.